Back to All Sections
7
Investigation Steps & Outcomes
Policy Sections 7.2 & 8.0
Step 1 of 7

Investigation Process (8 Steps)

01
Receipt
DO acknowledges
02
Assessment
5–10 days
03
Escalation
Route per matrix
04
Investigation
Gather evidence
05
Urgent Action
Risk mitigation
06
Findings
Recommendations
07
Disciplinary
Per HR policy
08
Closure
Strengthen controls
Timeline: The initial response must be provided within 5 to 10 working days of receiving the report.
Quick Check
An anonymous report about financial irregularities is received on Monday. The reporter wants to know how quickly they can expect an initial acknowledgment from the Designated Officer.
Within how many working days should the initial response be provided?

Possible Outcomes (Section 8.0)

Disciplinary Action

Against wrongdoer, up to and including dismissal

Bad-Faith Reporter

Action if report was deliberately malicious

No Action Needed

If the allegation is found to be unfounded

Legal Proceedings

If criminal misconduct is confirmed

What about good-faith reports that turn out wrong?
Good-faith reports are always protected — even if the allegation is ultimately not substantiated. Only deliberately malicious or bad-faith reports result in action against the reporter.
Quick Check
After a thorough investigation, the allegation against a colleague is found to be unfounded. However, the investigation reveals the reporter made the claim deliberately to harm the colleague's career.
What happens to a reporter who filed a deliberately malicious report?

Important Protections During Investigation

Remember: Good-faith reports are always protected. Only deliberately malicious reports result in action against the reporter.

Reporter Protected

No retaliation for good-faith reports at any stage

Fair Process

Accused can present their argument before action is taken

Confidential

All details remain confidential throughout investigation

Controls Strengthened

Outcomes include systemic improvements to prevent recurrence

Final Check
Miriam reported a colleague for suspected embezzlement. After a full investigation, the allegation was not substantiated. Miriam is worried she will now face punishment for "wasting everyone's time."
Will Miriam face consequences for her report that wasn't substantiated?

Key Takeaways

  • 8-step investigation from receipt to closure, with initial response within 5–10 working days
  • Four possible outcomes: disciplinary action, bad-faith reporter action, no action, or legal proceedings
  • Good-faith reporters are always protected — only deliberately malicious reports face consequences
Next up: Protection from Retaliation